A Quick Guide to Cutting the Cable Cord

Switching from traditional cable TV service to an internet-based option has become easier than ever. With three major TV-streaming services and countless compatible devices currently on the market, we have created a short guide that will cover the basics of ditching the old cable box and possibly saving a bit of money in the process.

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Step 1: Get a Fast Internet Connection

First things first: a speedy internet connection is a major prerequisite for getting rid of the cable box. Good-quality streaming services require between 3 and 5 megabits per second in order to work. If you are looking for 4K content streaming, the requirements change to 2 megabits per second and up.

Because your streaming device will likely share an internet connection with other users and devices, we'd recommend an internet plan that guarantees you at least 30 megabits per second and up. This way, you will never have to worry about the quality of your streams, or the speed that your web pages load.

Step 2: Pick the Right Streaming Device

The market is currently brimming with high-quality streaming devices, so it's next to impossible to make a wrong selection. Still, considering the streaming apps and services you plan to use, there are a few important bits to consider.

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Make sure that the streaming device of your choosing supports the apps and services you plan to use. Amazon and Roku offerings, for example, work with all major TV streaming services, as well as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu among many others. High-end options from the two companies can also stream 4K content when available.

Android TV devices, including TVs that run the platform, are another excellent option for cord-cutters, because they support all major content-streaming platforms. There are plenty of picks to consider, depending on your needs and budget.

Apple TV is also an excellent option with a top-notch interface, a vast library of apps and games, and seamless integration with your iPhone, iPad, and MacBook. There's also the option to use your Xbox or PlayStation as a streaming device.

Step 3: Choose a TV Streaming Service

There are three major TV streaming services that should be on your radar — Sling TV, DirecTV Now, and PlayStation Vue. Each service offers channel packages in various sizes and price points, as well as the option to sign up for premium content from the likes of HBO and Showtime, among others.

Sling TV has the lowest cost of entry with channel packages starting at $20 per month. PlayStation Vue and DirecTV Now options start at $30 and $35 respectively. Depending on your preferences, you can easily go past paying over $70 per month, though this is entirely up to you and your needs.

Each TV streaming provider has a slightly different lineup of channels on offer, though they all cover the TV basics. Here are the full lists of channels and add-ons that Sling TV, DirecTV Now, and PlayStation Vue offer.

The best part about choosing a TV streaming service is the ability to try it for free before committing. All three providers will give you the chance to test their service for a week before charging you — this should be a sufficiently long period to find out if the service you picked is right for you. Also, no service mentioned here requires a contract, so you can cancel anytime.

All three TV steaming providers we mentioned offer a free mobile app for on-the-go content viewing as well!

Step 4: Purchase an Optional HDTV Antenna

It's good to have an indoor HDTV antenna around, just in case your internet connection or favorite TV-streaming service decides to take a break for some reason. Affordable and easy to install, the gadget will allow you to watch popular over-the-air channels such as ABC, NBC, CBS, and PBS without the need of a subscription.

Mohu is widely regarded as the maker of the best HDTV antennas. Pricing of its products kicks off at only $20 on Amazon.

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